So Talisman of Death is a slightly different style because it is not as devious as some books are. But I feel you are doing ok so far and have managed to survive through good choices. (despite bad combat rolls). I am curious to see how you go from here though, but remember both the quest given from the crusaders and the quest given by the gods will be completed if you find a way back to your own world with the talisman. Incidentally, Grendel is the monster, but remember he had a mother, and from your friend the scholar, you know there are shape changers around. PS: Soporific means sleepy/sleeping